Becoming a UX Designer

Starting a career as a user experience designer is easier than you think. See what it takes to pursue a UX design career.

An increased emphasis on interaction with digital platforms in the contemporary world means new career paths for creatives working in digital fields—especially those whose skills lend themselves to user experience (UX) design and development. If you’re a graphic designer thinking about a career change, consider making the switch to UX design.

While graphic design will never go out of style, UX is a rapidly growing field today,1 and many of the skills that make you a successful graphic designer will translate directly to a UX design career.

Why consider a career in UX design infographic

What Is Ux Design?

UX design builds on the practical application of graphic design by incorporating the dimension of interactivity.

UX designers are responsible for conceptualizing and developing the way a user interacts with a website or digital product. This encompasses both visual elements of the product—a clear, legible and aesthetically beautiful design has a positive effect on usability—and its functionality.2 All aspects of the experience must flow seamlessly, be intuitive and leave the user with a good impression of the product. UX designers consider all facets of the experience of their product holistically, including how they present information to the user (the information architecture) and how the user feels at each step of the experience

A typical UX design process can be broken down into the following steps:3

  1. Conduct user research
  2. Analyze and brainstorm
  3. Develop an idea
  4. Build a prototype
  5. Test with users
UX designer vs graphic designer infographic

Making the Transition Into Ux Design

Check out these tips for becoming a UX designer, which can apply to you whether you’re just embarking on your career or making a career change. As with many creative digital fields, you can develop skills to succeed as a UX designer through focused independent study, including participating in interactive programs like the Daily UI Challenge. You can also gain new perspective and build a strong professional network by attending conferences in the field.

But if you’re really serious about making this bold career move, you may want to consider a graduate-level program, such as Kent State’s online Master’s in UX Design, to accelerate the process and add credentials to your resume. This program offers an instant network of faculty and peers and a curriculum that pairs technical skill development with business know-how to help you transform into a well-rounded, in-demand UX designer.


Sources:

  1. Retrieved on August 2, 2018, from money.cnn.com/gallery/pf/2017/01/05/best-jobs-2017/99.html
  2. Retrieved on August 2, 2018, from nngroup.com/articles/aesthetic-usability-effect/
  3. Retrieved on August 2, 2018, from theblog.adobe.com/ux-design-for-graphic-designers/
The editorial team at Kent State Online is composed of dedicated professionals with expertise in higher education, digital marketing, and content strategy. Our mission is to create insightful, engaging, and informative content that empowers prospective students to make informed decisions about advancing their education and careers.
Latest Blogs
In today’s digital world, understanding technology is essential for every student, and preparing students for that future begins with the educators who guide them. While conversations around computer science access continue to grow, one thing is clear: schools need teachers and instructional leaders who know how to use technology to drive engagement and real-world learning.
In today’s highly competitive sports and performance-driven environments, success is no longer solely determined by physical ability. Psychological factors such as motivation, confidence, focus, and mental resilience are critical in achieving peak performance. The 100% online Bachelor of Science in Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology at Kent State University is uniquely designed to equip aspiring coaches, trainers, and practitioners with the skills to understand and apply psychological principles to enhance performance and well-being in athletes and individuals across various domains.
In today’s technology-driven world, preparing students for success means more than just teaching them how to use a device. It means helping them think critically, solve problems creatively, and engage meaningfully with digital tools—and that starts with teachers who are equipped to lead in the digital age.
Explore Our Online Programs
Online Minors
Online Non-Degree Graduate Licensure Programs
Get Started
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Center for Adult Veteran Services
Approximately 1,500 international students from 100 countries are enrolled at Kent State University. We’re excited to have you join us, and our international admission team is here to help you every step of the way.
About Kent State Online
Contact Us
Contact Us